NoraMedrano

It is with great sadness that the family of Nora Medrano, age 76, announce her passing in the early morning hour of Saturday, June 30, surrounded by her immediate family at her home in Loma Linda. She was diagnosed with myelodysplastic syndrome in March of 2017 and braved chemotherapy and blood transfusions before she chose to come home and spend her final days with her family and friends.

She was born to Augustine and Asencion Dueñez on December 30, 1941 in Turlock, CA and grew up in Colton, CA. She graduated from Colton High School in 1960. She met, Leo, the love of her life, married in 1973, and started a family soon after. They lived in Rialto for a few years and settled in Loma Linda, CA in 1979. She worked for the San Bernardino City Unified School District for 20 years and retired in 2006.

She was a faithful servant of Christ, a caring lady, loving mother, and devoted spouse. To many of her younger siblings, she was like a second mother.

She enjoyed hosting parties, dancing cumbias, finding a bargain, and shopping for others. Nora was a selfless and giving individual. It was not uncommon for her to show up at one's party with a dish or dessert. In fact, one had to be careful about paying her a compliment. For example, if you said, "I like your sweater", she would take it off and give it to you. Though petite in stature, she had a large personality. Nora had spunk and would give frank advice. She would find value in the littlest of gestures – a homemade card, a plate of food, a call from a well-wisher. She savored good spicy Mexican food – nothing was too hot for her palate. She was a good cook and everyone loved her rice. She enjoyed watching cooking programs and detective shows. Known to her grandkids as "Nai-nai", they were the source of her delight.

She is preceded in death by her parents and her siblings Eva and Augustine Dueñez. She is survived by her husband Leo, her son Leo and his wife Deborah, her daughter Leoann Tansey and her husband Colin, her daughter Leonette Abbey and her husband Duncan; four grandchildren, Leo and Cruz Medrano and Aidan and Donovan Tansey; brothers, Donnie, Martin, and Abel Dueñez; sisters, Dolores Villarreal, Linda Fernandez, Lolly Campos, Anita Carrillo, and Lucita Baca; and over two dozen nieces and nephews.

In the last days of her life she was cared for by her family. They extend their warmest gratitude to those who visited her, brought her favorite dishes, and lifted her up in prayer. The family also thanks the compassionate staff in the Chemo Suite at Kaiser Permanente Hospital (Fontana). Your gentle touch was appreciated.

On July 17 a viewing will be held at the Colton Funeral Home from 5-9 PM. On July 18 a mass will be held at San Salvador Church (Colton) from 10-11 AM followed by gravesite services at Hermosa Cemetery (Colton). Afterwards, the family will host a memorial luncheon at the Elks Lodge #836 (San Bernardino) from 12:30-3:30PM.

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